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Earlier this year Argyll and the Isles Tourism Cooperative launched Wild About Argyll.

Their 2017 campaign, fronted by cyclist, broadcaster and all-round adventurer Mark Beaumont, aims to promote the area as Scotland's adventure coast.

The record-breaking Scottish cyclist who completed an epic 12-day multi-sport adventure across the region in July last year wants to encourage people from Glasgow to take advantage of the amazing natural beauty right on out doostep.

In light of Mark's message to the people of Glasgow we've come up with our top five day trip destinations in Argyll and the Isles that are just a short drive from the city centre.

1. Dunoon (1hr 40mins)

Taking a trip 'doon the watter' isn't just way for your Granny to make full use of her bus pass. Dunoon is great for a day out that doesn't cost a fortune. You can explore Castle Mound and its beaches, walk along the traditional Victorian promenade and visit its many cafes and souvenir shops. Its leisure centre has also just had a massive refurbishment which attracts locals and visitors alike. The quickest way to get there is nipping down the M8 to catch a ferry from Gourock, another quaint seaside town with its famous outdoor swimming pool .

2. Inveraray (1hr 26 mins)

Inveraray is a classic example of an 18th century Scottish planned town on the banks of Loch Fyne - great for all architecture buffs out there. One of the town's most popular attractions is the Inveraray Jail and courthouse which shows prison conditions between medieval times and the 19th century. Those after outdoor pursuits can visit Argyll Adventure in the town or the Quebec Boat Hire centre two miles down the road.

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3. Loch Lomond (47 mins)

When world renowned scenery like this is less than an hour from the city centre there really is no excuse to get in the car and go. From water sports, to pony trekking, to quad biking there really is something for everyone on the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond . Even those who fancy a quieter day out can wander around the visitor centre or head to nearby villages like Balloch to enjoy a pub lunch or bag of fish and chips.

4. Isle of Bute (1hr 45mins)

(Image: mtphotographybute.co.uk)

Drive another 15 minutes down the coast road from Gourock and you'll be able to hop on a ferry from Wemyss Bay to Rothesay on the Isle of Bute . Rothesay is your typical seaside resort from years gone by with traditional ice cream parlours, cafes and fish and chip shops lining its promenade. History fans should visit Mount Stuart House, an ancient stronghold for Scottish Kings. Don't forget about beautiful Bute on your day trips.

5. Lochgoilhead (1hr 20mins)

(Image: Facebook)

Lochgoilhead is one of Scotland's most popular holiday home destinations and we can see why. There are two canoeing and kayaking centres in the village as well an impressive golf course. 15th century ruins of Carrick Castle are just a few miles away or relax in the famous spa at Drimsynie House Hotel.